Princess Charlotte Is Getting a Surprising New Title That's a Huge Snub to Prince Edward

Princess Charlotte is about to get a very fancy title upgrade: Duchess of Edinburgh. And while the new title is a sweet tribute to the Queen (more on that in a sec), it's also a pretty major snub to King Charles' brother Prince Edward—who was expected to inherit the Duke of Edinburgh title after his father Prince Philip's death.

But despite previous plans to give Edward the prestigious title (which was held by Her Majesty before she ascended the throne), the Daily Mail reports that King Charles is preparing to give it to his granddaughter.

"Discussions are under way, but the favored outcome for the King is that this title ought to go to Princess Charlotte," a source said. "It would be a fitting way to remember the Queen – who, of course, had the title Duchess of Edinburgh – and a way for His Majesty to honour the line of succession."

Another insider explained that "Charlotte’s position is historically significant because she is the first female member of the Royal Family whose place in the line of succession will not be surpassed by her younger brother. So it is constitutionally significant that Charlotte should be given such a corresponding title, because it is not beyond the realms of possibility that she will accede the throne if, for example, Prince George does not have children."

The decision comes after months of speculation about why Prince Edward hasn't been granted the title, and apparently he's less than thrilled. By which I mean a source source close to the royal family "icily" said the lack of title "hasn’t gone unnoticed."

Meanwhile, discussions are happening over at ye olde palace about what title (if any) Prince Edward will get instead. But he shouldn't get his hopes up because King Charles' whole thing is "promoting those directly in line to the throne rather than those on the edges" in order to have a slimmed-down monarchy.

You Might Also Like

• 9 Wellness Gift Ideas from Oprah’s Favorite Things

• Here’s What NOT to Wear to a Wedding

• Meet the Laziest, Easiest Acne Routine You’ll Ever Try